Class Pages
We have four Classes at Colliers Green that are structured as follows:
| Class 1 | Class 2 | Class 3 | Class 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reception Year | Years 1 & 2 | Years 3 & 4 | Years 5 & 6 |
| Foundation Stage | Key Stage 1 | Lower Key Stage 2 | Upper Key Stage 2 |
| Ages 4-5 | Ages 5 - 7 | Ages 7 - 9 | Ages 9 - 11 |
There are a maximum of 16 children in Class 1. This small cohort enables our EYFS team to build strong relationships and tailor the learning to the needs of the individuals within the group. Our vision is for children to leave Reception feeling happy and excited about coming to school.
From hereon, the children are grouped in mixed-year-classes.
“Research strongly supports the idea that mixed-age classrooms are better for students.”
The mixed-age classroom is like a family: the older students nurture the younger ones and motivate them. We also believe that one of the best ways to improve one’s knowledge or abilities in a subject is to teach the subject to others.
Most human activities involve a cycle in which a beginner learns necessary skills, perfects them through use, and hones them through mentorship. That is true of careers, sports teams, and even hobbies. It is also true of the educational experience of children in mixed year group classes. Research strongly supports the idea that mixed-age classrooms are better for students. Not only do children out-perform peers of the same age academically, studies also show that they thrive socially. Here’s why:
Competition is removed
In mixed-age classrooms, children are more likely to cooperate than compete. This spirit of cooperation and caring makes it possible for children to see each other as individuals as opposed to competitors.
Children develop a sense of family with their classmates
Mixed-age classrooms generate a family of learners who support and care for one another. Older children have the opportunity to serve as mentors and take leadership roles. They model more sophisticated approaches to problem solving, helping younger children to accomplish tasks they would not be able to do independently. This dynamic increases the older child’s level of independence and competence while increasing the younger child’s spirit of belonging in a community of learners.
Children seen as unique individuals
When classrooms contain students of varied ages, teachers concentrate on what children can do, rather than what they can’t do. Teachers focus on instructing each child according to his or her own strengths.
Self-esteem blossoms
Multiage classrooms are socially and psychologically healthy because they promote friendship and provide extended contact with adults and peers of varying ages. These groups show a noticeable increase in self-esteem.
